The French word Queue means Tail and is used in many different contexts. I list a few below and I’m sure I forgot some.

Queue is used to describe the tail of an animal but also the tail of a plane or the tail of a storm. It is also used to designate the handle of a pan, the cherry stem or the last cars of a train. It is also how the group of more mediocre students that lag behind the best is depicted.

Although the word Queue can be used in the USA in order to describe the act of waiting in line, it’s quite rare and a little strange. I don’t think I ever heard anyone asking me if I was standing in queue. On the other hand, this is the proper way to say it in French.

The French font la queue when the Americans stand or wait in line.

Queue is also the cue used to strike a ball in pool or billiards.

Less expected maybe Queue de pie (magpie) is how a tailcoat or tails is called in France.

Comments

We queue up in Britain! Then we have to remember that the US version is different, although we seem to import a lot of expressions from the USA. OK? for one. @suesconsideredt from Sue’s Trifles
and Sue’s words and pictures